The Perceived Benefits of Religious and Spiritual Coping Among Older Adults Living with HIV/AIDS

Although religious and spiritual beliefs and practices have been frequently associated with greater psychological well‐being among illness populations, little is known about the specific benefits individuals perceive they receive from these beliefs and practices. This issue was examined in interviews with 63 older HIV‐infected adults. Participants reported a variety of benefits from their religious and spiritual beliefs and practices, including: (1) evokes comforting emotions and feelings; (2) offers strength, empowerment, and control; (3) eases the emotional burden of the illness; (4) offers social support and a sense of belonging; (5) offers spiritual support through a personal relationship with God; (6) facilitates meaning and acceptance of the illness; (7) helps preserve health; (8) relieves the fear and uncertainty of death; (9) facilitates self‐acceptance and reduces self‐blame. These perceived benefits suggest potential mechanisms by which religion/spirituality may affect psychological adjustment.